Tuesday, October 20, 2009

One Earth, One Climate On October 24

CHESTERTOWN – The Center for Environment & Society is calling for all kayakers and canoeists to rally on the river on Saturday, October 24, at 10 AM, at the Washington College floating dock. This is an opportunity for individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations to take a stand (or in this case a paddle) to advocate for a safe climate future.

The event is one of many planned as part of 350º, an international movement to raise awareness of the need to stop global warming pollution.

Two years ago, after leading climatologists observed rapid ice melt in the Arctic and other frightening signs of climate change, they issued a series of studies showing that the planet faced serious human and natural consequences if atmospheric concentrations of CO2 remained above 350 parts per million (ppm).

Currently the Earth’s atmosphere carries over 387 ppm of carbon dioxide – the leading cause of global climate change. Top climate scientists (James Hansen, Nicholas Stern and Rajendra Pachauri) have indicated that a safe climate future rests at 350 ppm (or less).

Actions across the globe will take place on October 24 - the International Day of Climate Action – to help spread awareness around this number and the forthcoming release of the United Nations new international climate change treaty. In Chestertown, the call to action is open to all. Sign up with jfairchild2@washcoll.edu or call 410-778-7295.The Center estimates it will take about 35 kayaks in the water to spell out 350º.